The first year in real estate is tough. You’ve got your license, your business cards, and maybe a few open houses lined up. But now comes the real challenge—finding people who are actually ready to buy or sell. This is where most new agents feel stuck, overwhelmed by options and unsure where to focus.

You’re not alone. Every successful agent started from the same spot: zero leads. But those who thrive figure out how to consistently generate quality leads—without burning out or spending a fortune. That’s what this guide is about.

You’ll learn the trusted ways on how to get real estate leads for new agents, from the basics to high-leverage methods that top producers rely on. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need a smarter lead-gen strategy, this article has you covered.

Summary Table: Trusted Ways on How to Get Real Estate Leads for New Agents

MethodDescriptionBest For
Sphere of Influence (SOI)Leverage personal connections to build trust fastBeginners, low-cost lead gen
Open HousesMeet active buyers face-to-face and gather contact infoNew listings, local networking
Social Media MarketingUse platforms like Instagram and Facebook for visibility and brandingMillennials, tech-savvy agents
Paid Lead ServicesPurchase leads from services like Zillow or Realtor.comAgents with budget for scale
Door Knocking & FarmingHyper-local, face-to-face outreach in target neighborhoodsGeographic niche marketing
Real Estate CRMAutomate follow-ups and stay top-of-mind with leadsLong-term client nurturing
Referrals & TestimonialsBuild credibility and generate new leads through happy clientsGrowing agent networks
Content MarketingBlogs, videos, or guides that attract leads over timeSustainable, SEO-driven leads
FSBO & Expired ListingsConvert motivated sellers who need agent helpConfident, persistent agents
Networking & Community EventsBuild local relationships and brand recognitionAgents who love in-person contact

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What Are the Most Trusted Sources of Real Estate Leads for New Agents?

Trusted real estate leads often come from your existing relationships, professional networks, and local community.

New agents frequently overlook their Sphere of Influence (SOI)—friends, family, and acquaintances who already trust them. Starting here is not only affordable, but also highly effective.

Other dependable sources include:

  • Open houses where active buyers show up
  • Local networking events where trust builds naturally
  • Social media where consistent branding generates inbound interest

Reliable leads tend to come from consistent, value-driven contact—not one-time outreach. Let’s explore these trusted sources further.

To fully capitalize on your lead sources, you need to understand how to actively generate leads using proven tactics.

How to Leverage Your Sphere of Influence (SOI)

Your SOI is one of the most powerful—and often underused—tools for lead generation.

Start by listing everyone you know:

  • Friends, family, classmates
  • Former coworkers, neighbors
  • Gym buddies, church groups, hobby clubs

Then:

  1. Reach out personally (not with a mass email)
  2. Let them know you’re in real estate
  3. Ask for referrals even if they aren’t buying or selling

Use a simple message like:

“Hey [Name], I just started in real estate and I’m building my business. If you or anyone you know needs help buying or selling, I’d love to help!”

A well-managed SOI can drive your first deals and long-term referrals. As your contacts respond, managing these relationships becomes key—making CRM tools essential.

Why Open Houses Are Still Relevant in 2025

Open houses let you meet potential buyers in person, build rapport, and capture warm leads.

To maximize results:

  • Promote on social media and local groups
  • Use a sign-in app or form to collect contact details
  • Follow up with personalized messages

Ask visitors:

  • “Are you already working with an agent?”
  • “What are you looking for in a home?”

You may not sell the house, but you’ll meet serious buyers who need an agent. These leads are typically local, motivated, and ready to engage.

Once you’ve captured leads, nurturing them becomes the next crucial step.

How Can Social Media Help New Agents Get Real Estate Leads?

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok offer free visibility and branding for new agents.

Effective social media tactics include:

  • Sharing behind-the-scenes content
  • Posting market updates and home tips
  • Highlighting local businesses
  • Using hashtags like #YourCityRealtor

Run geo-targeted ads for your listings or services, and join local groups to answer real estate questions.

Tip: Focus on engagement, not perfection. People connect with agents they like and trust—not just polished salespeople.

Social media can quickly grow awareness, but for consistent follow-up, you’ll need a solid CRM system in place.

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What Are the Best Real Estate CRMs for New Agents?

A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tool helps you organize, follow up, and nurture leads over time.

Popular beginner-friendly CRMs:

  • Follow Up Boss – Easy to use, great for teams
  • Wise Agent – Affordable and feature-rich
  • KVCORE – More advanced, built-in marketing

With a CRM, you can:

  • Track conversations
  • Set reminders for follow-ups
  • Automate email or text drip campaigns

CRMs prevent hot leads from falling through the cracks—especially after events, open houses, or social outreach.

If you want a faster route to leads, consider paid services next.

Should New Agents Use Paid Lead Services?

Yes—but only if you understand how to convert leads into clients.

Top platforms:

  • Zillow Premier Agent
  • Realtor.com Connections
  • BoldLeads, Market Leader

Pros:

  • Leads delivered consistently
  • Quick volume to fill your pipeline

Cons:

  • High competition
  • Expensive if not managed well

Only invest if you have scripts ready, a CRM to follow up, and time to respond fast.

Prefer free strategies? Let’s explore those next.

How to Use Community Events and Local Networking for Lead Generation

Community involvement builds trust, familiarity, and local credibility.

Ideas:

  • Sponsor school or charity events
  • Volunteer at food drives or neighborhood cleanups
  • Attend local Chamber of Commerce meetings

In person, it’s easier to demonstrate your value and connect authentically. Plus, people are more likely to refer someone they’ve met face-to-face.

For more direct outreach, explore methods like FSBOs and expired listings.

How to Convert FSBO and Expired Listings Into Leads

For Sale By Owner (FSBO) and expired listings are full of motivated sellers—if approached right.

Steps:

  1. Research listings daily on Zillow, Craigslist, MLS
  2. Reach out with value-first messaging
  3. Offer free CMAs, listing advice, or exposure

Sample script:

“I noticed your home didn’t sell—I’d love to share what’s working in today’s market to get homes like yours sold fast.”

You’ll face rejection, but consistent effort often lands listings. These strategies require persistence—but they pay off.

For more scalable leads, consider content marketing.

How Can New Agents Use Content Marketing for Lead Generation?

Content builds trust and attracts long-term leads who find you online.

Options:

  • Write neighborhood guides for SEO
  • Film short YouTube videos answering buyer/seller questions
  • Offer free resources like checklists or eBooks

Make your content:

  • Keyword optimized (e.g., “First-time buyer tips in [City]”)
  • Value-packed and easy to read
  • Linked to your contact info or lead forms

Content marketing is slower but compounds over time, making it ideal for long-term business growth.

FAQs

What’s the fastest way to get real estate leads as a new agent?

Start with your sphere of influence and hold open houses. These generate immediate connections and build momentum.

Are paid leads worth it for new agents?

Only if you’re ready to follow up consistently and convert. Otherwise, they become expensive with low ROI.

How often should I follow up with leads?

Follow up within 24 hours initially, then consistently every few days or weekly based on lead interest.

Is cold calling still effective?

Yes, especially for FSBO and expired listings. Use value-first scripts and track your responses.

What’s the best free method to get leads?

Networking, social media, and community events are high-trust, low-cost ways to grow your base.

Conclusion

Real estate success doesn’t start with luck—it starts with leads. By using these trusted ways on how to get real estate leads for new agents, you’ll build your pipeline, grow your reputation, and gain the confidence to close deals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Start with your personal network (SOI) for warm leads
  • Use open houses, events, and social platforms to expand reach
  • Implement a CRM to track and nurture every opportunity
  • Try both free and paid options—but always focus on follow-up
  • Play the long game with content and SEO strategies

Consistency is the secret to lead generation. Even one or two strategies executed well can bring lasting success.

This page was last edited on 2 July 2025, at 5:44 pm